The YU Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence (CTLE) was re-established for the purpose of improving the quality of teaching, learning, and assessment among the Al Yamamah University faculty. CTLE was initially established in 2018 under the name “Teaching, Learning, and Development Center”. In June 2025, it was restructured and relaunched, appointing a new team comprising a Center Director, and two coordinators in Riyadh and one in Khobar. CTLE was officially renamed the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence in March 2026. Immediately after its relaunch, the CTLE started to effect change in the teaching, learning, and assessment landscape through adopting the INSPIRED Learning Model, restructuring the Induction Program, Organizing a YU Faculty & Staff Outing, running diagnostic interviews and surveys, and organizing highly interactive, and performance driven workshops.

To be a hub and catalyst for transformative education and empowerment at Al Yamamah University and beyond, advancing a culture of educational excellence and innovation that prepares future-ready graduates and contributes to the aspirations of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

Guided by Al Yamamah University’s mission and strategic vision, the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence (CTLE) empowers faculty to create engaging, intellectually rigorous, and student-centered learning experiences through innovative pedagogy, professional development, and reflective practice, driving continuous improvement in teaching, learning, assessment, and student success.

1. Advance Teaching Excellence and Faculty Development
   Strengthen the pedagogical capacity of faculty and instructional staff through comprehensive professional development, mentoring, and faculty induction programs that support the effective implementation of innovative, student-centered teaching practices aligned with the YU Educational Transformational Model INSPIRED.
2. Enhance the Quality of Student Learnin
   Promote engaging and intellectually rigorous learning environments that cultivate 21st-century competencies, including critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, communication, and problem solving.
3. Strengthen Assessment for Meaningful Learning Outcomes
   Support the development and implementation of effective, evidence-based assessment practices that accurately measure student learning and promote the development of knowledge, skills, values, and employability competencies.
4. Foster a Culture of Teaching Excellence and Continuous Improvement
   Cultivate a university-wide growth mindset and culture that values teaching excellence, pedagogical innovation, reflective practice, and collaboration among faculty and staff.
5. Contribute to Student Success and Graduate Employability
   Support teaching and learning initiatives that enhance student achievement, engagement, and the development of workforce-relevant skills, preparing graduates to thrive in an evolving global and national labor market.
6. Ensure Sustainability and Strategic Growth in Teaching and Learning
   Strengthen the long-term impact of teaching and learning initiatives by supporting institutional priorities, expanding faculty development opportunities, and promoting sustainable innovation in education.

New Faculty Induction

• Introduction to the YU Transformational Educational Model (INSPIRED)
• Introduction to the process of course reporting and filing for quality assurance
• Orientation into the YU faculty life and work expectation
• Encouraging research and pointing out research opportunities
• Introduction to the YU various electronic systems
• Basic new faculty survival tips

Faculty and Staff Development

• Faculty Induction and Continuous Professional Development
• Faculty Certification Programs (e.g., Academic Teaching Pass)
• Campus-wide, College-specific, and Customized Training
• Faculty-led Workshops and External Development Opportunities

Teaching Innovation and Digital Transformation

• INSPIRED Educational Model Training and Bootcamp
• AI Integration in Teaching and Learning
• Innovative and Active Learning Practices
• Learning Management System and Educational Technology Training

Curriculum, Assessment, and Academic Quality

• Curriculum, program, and Course Design Support
• Program Development and Improvement Consultation
• Assessment and Testing Excellence
• NCAAA Accreditation and Quality Assurance Support

Teaching Excellence and Faculty Support and 

• Classroom Observation and Instructional Feedback
• Faculty Coaching and Instructional Consultation
• Teaching Resources and Faculty Handbook
• Teaching Excellence Awards and Recognition

Student Academic Success

• Study Skills and Academic Success Workshops
• Research and Academic Skills Development
• Student Learning Support Initiatives

Institutional Capacity Building

• Training on new Policies and Procedures
• Strategic Teaching and Learning Initiatives
• YU Faculty Teaching Pass
• Online self-paced teaching and learning development resources
• Training-of-Trainers initiatives

Personalized Faculty Support

• Personalized meetings and consultations
• Personalized development plans
• Test development review sessions